Jigawa State Government has approved a request by the Ministry of Health to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding with Lafiya Nigeria to strengthen reproductive healthcare services across the state.
The State Commissioner for Information, Youth, Sports and Culture, Alhaji Sagir Musa Ahmed, disclosed this to journalists after the State Executive Council meeting held at the Government House in Dutse.
He said the partnership, to be implemented through the Jigawa State Primary Health Care Development Agency, would focus on improving reproductive health interventions through capacity building for healthcare workers, technical support and enhanced service delivery.
According to him, the collaboration will also promote community engagement and other evidence-based initiatives aimed at improving maternal and reproductive health outcomes in the state.
Alhaji Sagir explained that the initiative is expected to complement the healthcare priorities of Governor Umar Namadi’s administration and contribute to the attainment of Universal Health Coverage.
He noted that the partnership would help reduce maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality, increase access to family planning services and improve antenatal and postnatal care.
The commissioner added that the programme would also promote informed reproductive health choices among the population.
Meanwhile, the State Executive Council has approved the payment of over N297 million as compensation to individuals and communities affected by the expansion of the Rasheed Shekoni Teaching Hospital.
He said the compensation covers affected structures, farmlands, economic trees and the reallocation of plots within the additional 50 hectares of land acquired for the hospital expansion project.
According to him, the expansion is aimed at strengthening the state’s healthcare system by enhancing the hospital’s capacity to provide quality healthcare services, support medical education and create a conducive environment for training healthcare professionals.
Alhaji Sagir commended the affected communities and stakeholders for their understanding and cooperation, assuring them that the compensation process would be carried out in accordance with established procedures to ensure prompt and equitable payment.
Usman Mohammed Zaria
